Preview of OPEM
OPEM Exhibition at The Collection
On Friday 4th February, three of the journalists from LYJA (Grace Williamson, Ellen Lavelle and I) went to interview some of the artists at the OPEM event at The Collection. The OPEM exhibition displays abstract art and is an opportunity for contemporary artists to show their work; from 150 applications, 34 artists were chosen. I felt really privileged to be one of the first people to view some of the best work produced by people in this region; the artworks themselves included sculpture, ceramics, photography and textiles so it was great to see such a diverse display.
We interviewed the winner of the event (Michael Sanders) who gave us a lot of inspirational advice for the future and he also gave us great insight into where the source of inspiration for his artwork came from and why art universally is very important. We also interviewed local folklorist, Maureen Sutton, who said art “takes us to different levels; it opens our minds, challenges us, helps us connect with other people. I like that connection between the artist and the observer – I think that link is absolutely vital”.
The OPEM Exhibition is available for viewing until 3rd May, so make sure you go and have a look before it’s too late!
Mary Llewellyn 9.1